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EU climate and energy policy should be aimed at innovation

15-05-2013

The EU has set itself the ambition of an 80% reduction of greenhouse gases by 2050. Such a drastic reduction requires a much more vigorous renewal of the energy system. Setting a target for emission reduction alone is not enough This needs to be complemented by policies and targets for innovation and energy efficiency.

Effects of climate change in Netherlands appear manageable

07-05-2013

In the Netherlands, at the current rate of climate change the adverse effects of climate change appear to be manageable. As a new PBL study shows, most changes occur gradually, enabling Dutch citizens, companies and the government to adapt to new circumstances. Furthermore, policy makers are also increasingly aware of the effects of climate change, such as the risks of flooding, drought and precipitation extremes.

Minimum price best option for reform of EU Emissions Trading System

25-04-2013

A minimum price for emission allowances offers the best opportunity for the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) to function as a key policy instrument in reducing CO2 emissions. Such a price floor will create a steady and higher CO2 price, which will stimulate corporations to reduce their CO2 emission and invest in sustainable innovations.

Conditions for greening the Dutch economy

04-03-2013

Greening the economy is a major and necessary task for the world as a whole as well as for the Netherlands. Using energy, raw materials and natural resources more efficiently will strengthen the structure of the Dutch economy. It is important that the Dutch Government sketches a clear perspective on greening for citizens and businesses.

Pledges by developing countries lead to 9-12% emission reduction

20-02-2013

A new study shows that the proposals from developing countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 lead to a 9-12% reduction in their emissions. Assuming all countries take immediate action, this means that, to achieve the 2°C target cost-effectively, developed countries need to reduce their emissions by 50% below 1990 levels

 

Highlights

Will countries meet their pledges?

Following the Copenhagen climate negotiations In 2009, many countries submitted pledges on reducing their greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. These pledges subsequently led to efforts to plan and implement national policies in all countries. PBL and Ecofys present the first study to assess by how much the most effective domestic climate policies in a number of major emitting countries would contribute to fulfilling their pledges.

Nature Outlook 2010-2040: Dutch nature policy in motion

Every four years, PBL publishes a Nature Outlook under statutory obligation. This year, the Nature Outlook is published at a time of important amendments made to nature and landscape policies and in related policy fields. This includes efficiency increases, less government involvement, and further decentralisation of policies.